Babcock says the first Jackal 3 Extenda vehicles from the second production tranche have rolled off the Devonport line, marking a key milestone in the programme to deliver new high-mobility platforms to the British Army.
Fifty-three six-wheel Jackal 3 Extenda models are being built in partnership with Supacat, following the completion of tranche one which produced 70 standard Jackal 3s. Designed by Supacat in Honiton and manufactured in Plymouth, the programme maintains engineering jobs in the South West and aligns with the wider industrial strategy to retain sovereign capability.
The Extenda variant adds an extra axle for increased payload without compromising the platform’s cross-country performance. The Jackal 3 family is used for reconnaissance, patrol, logistics and as a weapons carrier.
Chris Spicer, Managing Director for Engineering and Systems Integration at Babcock, said the milestone reinforces the value of the programme to both the Army and local industry. “The Jackal 3 (E) provides the British Army with a formidable vehicle which enables troops to carry out a variety of missions. This is an important milestone in a programme which ensures our Armed Forces have a best-in-class vehicle – while providing skilled jobs in the South West and clearly demonstrating that defence is a real driver for economic growth.”
Supacat’s Head, Phil Applegarth, highlighted the supply-chain dimension. “We are proud to announce that, following the recent deliveries of Jackal 3 vehicles to the British Army, the next tranche of Jackal 3 Extendas are now rolling off the Babcock production line in Devonport. A resilient, collaborative supply chain, underpinned by a secure industrial and manufacturing base is vital for UK defence at this pivotal time.”